Germany Reports First Commercial Newcastle Disease Case in 18 Years
German veterinary authorities have confirmed an outbreak of Newcastle Disease (ND) in a turkey flock, marking the country’s first occurrence in a commercial farming operation in nearly two decades.
The case was officially confirmed on February 20, 2026, at a facility in Neißemünde, located in the state of Brandenburg. The affected flock comprised approximately 18,000 turkeys, with officials reporting an initial mortality rate of 1,000 birds.
Key Details of the Outbreak
- Location: Neißemünde, Brandenburg.
- Species Affected: Commercial turkeys.
- Scale: 18,000 birds (1,000 initial deaths).
- Historical Significance: This is the first commercial case in Germany in approximately 18 years.
The reappearance of the virus has put local agricultural sectors on high alert. It is important to note that Germany maintains one of the strictest biosecurity protocols regarding the virus.
In Germany, vaccination against Newcastle Disease is legally mandatory for all keepers of chickens and turkeys. This regulation applies to large-scale commercial operations, hobbyists, and backyard flock owners alike.
Neißemünde is located in eastern Germany, on the border with Poland, which has been reporting widespread Newcastle disease outbreaks within its territory for several months.
The ND virus in Brandenburg belongs to the VII.1.1 genotype therefore highly similar to ND viruses from outbreaks in Poland.
